Cheesman Reservoir
Cheesman Reservoir (~6,842 ft elevation in the South Platte Canyon near Deckers, operated by Denver Water) is a walk-in, shore-only Front Range mountain reservoir holding rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee salmon, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and northern pike.
Important Seasonal Closure & Access Rules (Verify Before You Drive):
- Seasonal Fishing Closure: Cheesman Reservoir has strict seasonal fishing dates and winter closure periods (typically closed Oct 1 through Apr 30; always confirm the current year's open dates with Denver Water Recreation and the Colorado Fishing Regulations Brochure).
- Shore Fishing Only: No boats, kayaks, belly boats, float tubes, wading, or ice fishing are permitted on Cheesman Reservoir.
- Dam & Restricted Zones: Observe all posted closures near the dam and spillway.
Official Sources & Nearby Waters
- Facility Operator: Denver Water — Cheesman Reservoir Recreation Rules.
- CPW Regulations: Colorado Fishing Regulations.
- Open-Season Trip Kit: Open Cheesman Reservoir in the VCO Trip Builder →
Recommended VCO Gear for Walk-In Shore Trips
- VCO Light Spinning Reel (1000) — $50.99 pre-order (140 g lightweight build for long hike-in shore days). No ship date yet. Full refund any time before it ships.
- VCO 8-Strand Braided Line, 15 lb, 300 m — $16.99 pre-order (Size 1.0 PE braid for long shore casts). No ship date yet. Full refund any time before it ships.
- Valley Merch Pack — $99 (or duos at $76, $70, $66; Trucker Hat $38, Ringer Shirt $44, Tumbler $36). Made to order, ships from Grand Junction.
Questions? Call 970-426-1678 or email support@viralcastoutfitters.com.